The object of my affection: attachment security and material culture

 

Researchers from the Department of Archaeology have published a new paper on the power of objects on human emotional wellbeing.

Taryn Bell and Penny Spikins argue that archaeologists should pay attention to the significance of "attachment objects" in the past. Attachment objects, from childrens' teddy bears to cherished possessions carefully cared for as adults, can improve our emotional wellbeing, increasing our sense of security and providing comfort. See their new paper for details.